Ascarioza

Ascarioza, also known as ascariasis, is a disease caused by the roundworm Ascaris lumbricoides. It is a type of intestinal nematode infection and is one of the most common helminthic infections worldwide. Transmission occurs when a person ingests eggs of Ascaris lumbricoides, which are typically found in soil contaminated with human feces. These eggs can be transferred to hands, food, or water.

Once ingested, the eggs hatch into larvae in the small intestine. These larvae then travel through the bloodstream and lungs, eventually reaching the throat where they are coughed up and re-swallowed. Upon re-ingestion, the larvae mature into adult worms in the small intestine. Adult Ascaris lumbricoides are large, pinkish-white roundworms, with females being significantly longer than males. They live in the small intestine and feed on partially digested food.

Symptoms of ascariasis can vary depending on the number of worms present and their location in the body. Mild infections may be asymptomatic. Heavier infections can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and malnutrition, particularly in children. During the larval migration phase through the lungs, some individuals may experience a cough and wheezing, known as Löffler's syndrome. Complications can arise from a large worm burden, including intestinal obstruction or bile duct blockage, which can be life-threatening. Diagnosis is usually made by identifying Ascaris eggs in stool samples. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic medications such as albendazole or mebendazole.